Swedish Apple Cake

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Sure! Here’s a long, detailed, and heartwarming recipe for Swedish Apple Cake—filled with all the cozy vibes, traditions, and love this timeless dessert deserves.

Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka)

A rustic dessert steeped in tradition and sweet family memories.

Introduction

Swedish Apple Cake, or “Äppelkaka” in Swedish, is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of home, nostalgia, and comfort. This beloved Scandinavian treat blends tender apples, warm spices, and buttery richness into a soft cake that feels like a hug from grandma. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of vanilla sauce, it’s a dessert that’s both humble and heavenly.

Originating in rural Sweden, where apple orchards thrive and baking is a generational art form, Swedish Apple Cake is often made during apple harvest season and shared at fika—a Swedish coffee break that’s all about slowing down and savoring life’s sweet moments.

Let’s dive into this delicious tradition together.

History & Background

Swedish Apple Cake has been passed down through generations, often made with apples grown in backyard gardens or gathered in the countryside. Historically, families would gather in autumn, peel and slice apples by hand, and bake them into cakes that would warm their kitchens and hearts.

The cake is typically less sweet than American versions, allowing the natural tartness of the apples and the earthiness of spices like cinnamon and cardamom to shine. It’s not unusual to find subtle regional variations across Sweden—some include custard, some add breadcrumbs on top for texture, others incorporate almonds or raisins.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground cardamom (optional but authentic)
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk

For the Apple Layer:

  • 2–3 tart apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced thin
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp cinnamon

Optional Topping:

  • Sliced almonds or pearl sugar
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Vanilla sauce, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for serving

Method

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (springform is ideal), or line it with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Cream the Butter & Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 3–4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients & Milk

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 6: Prepare Apples

In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon until well coated.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange the apple slices on top in a circular pattern, pressing them gently into the batter. Sprinkle with almonds or pearl sugar if using.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the apples are tender.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or warm vanilla sauce.

Conclusion

This cake is a celebration of simplicity and seasonal ingredients, baked with love and rich in tradition. Swedish Apple Cake is perfect for any occasion—quiet evenings, family gatherings, or that treasured moment of fika with a friend. Every bite tells a story.

Lovers of This Recipe Say…

Helena from Stockholm: “Tastes just like my farmor’s cake. I bake this every fall now for my children.”
James in Minnesota: “My Swedish wife introduced me to this—now I’m the one making it for her every weekend!”
Leila from London: “So simple, yet so comforting. The cardamom is a must. Just heavenly.”

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